History & Social Studies Teacher

Exempt; 7.33 Hours/Day; 200 Days/Year; 10 Months/Year Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in History & Social Studies, or with appropriate, subject-related coursework for endorsement by the VDOE. Eligible for, or in possession of, appropriate Virginia Teaching License. Tuberculin Skin test certifying that the individual is free of contagious tuberculosis. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Work Environment Above average amount of walking, bending, standing, stooping, and lifting in a classroom environment and laboratories. Work involves exposure to normal everyday hazards. Work is performed in a classroom and requires no unusual demands. In-depth knowledge of the subject(s) to be taught. Demonstrates considerable knowledge of the principles and methodologies of effective teaching. Ability to deliver articulate oral presentations and written reports and effectively interact with pupils, other teachers, administrators, and classified employees. Knowledgeable in the use of personal computers. Nature of Position This is specialized teaching performed in a classroom. The teacher develops in each pupil an appreciation of American ideals and cultural heritage; to develop proficiency in the use of social studies inquiry, skills and concepts; to motivate each pupil to exercise his/her rights, privileges and responsibilities as a citizen; to develop understanding of the geographical, historical, cultural and political factors which influence the development of world regions; to encourage pupils to develop sound opinions based on the study of facts concerning the operation of political and economic systems. The teacher is responsible directly to the principal or designee. Teaches courses in social studies, history, geography, American government, political science, economics, or humanities to secondary pupils, utilizing the course of study adopted by the school district. Prepares pupils for informed and responsible citizenship and for basic subject matter specified in state law and in the school district's administrative regulations and procedures. Develops a balanced social studies program involving factual background material, material on current events, discussion time, and appropriate activities designed to encourage pupils to develop essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes, draw conclusions, achieve improved interpersonal relationships, and make value judgments based on scientific methods of inquiry. Provides individual or small-group instruction to adapt the curriculum to the needs of each pupil with varying intellectual abilities, attitudes, and cultural backgrounds. Develops knowledge of the purpose, structure, and operation of the American governmental and economic system, and the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. Makes current material from the mass media available to pupils; plans and guides discussions of current problems against the background of the geographical environment and the history of the area being studied. Develops knowledge of political and economic systems of other nations and their influence on personal freedom, education, and living standards. Encourages pupils to become aware of the complexity and interrelationships among local, state, national, and global problems. Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to provide an orderly, productive learning environment. Selects and requests supplementary books, instructional aids, and instructional supplies; maintains required inventory records. Maintains professional competence through in-service educational activities provided by the district and/or self-elected professional growth activities. Identifies pupils' needs, and cooperates with other professional staff members in helping pupils solve health, attitudes, and learning problems. Communicates with parents and school counselors on pupil progress. Supervises pupils in out-of-classroom activities during the assigned workday. Participates in faculty committees and sponsors student activities. Participates cooperatively with the principal or designee to develop the method by which he/she will be evaluated in conformance with district guidelines. In addition to instructional duties, he/she will maintain professional standards; serve on committees to advise on non-academic affairs, such as school discipline, honors, awards, assemblies; and participate in local and national teaching and civic associations.